Title: Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator.
Series: Research Report
Author: National Medicolegal Review Panel
Published: National Institute of Justice, November 1999
Subject: Criminal investigation, evidence
55 pages
101,000 bytes
-------------------------------
Figures, charts, forms, and tables are not included in this ASCII plain-text
file. To view this document in its entirety, download the Adobe Acrobat
graphic file available from this Web site or order a print copy from NCJRS
at 800-851-3420 (877-712-9279 for TTY users).
-------------------------------
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
National Institute of Justice
Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator
Research Report
-------------------------------
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
810 Seventh Street N.W.
Washington, DC 20531
Janet Reno
Attorney General
Daniel Marcus
Acting Associate Attorney General
Laurie Robinson
Assistant Attorney General
Noel Brennan
Deputy Assistant Attorney General
Jeremy Travis
Director, National Institute of Justice
-------------------------------
Department of Justice Response Center:
800-421-6770
-------------------------------
Office of Justice Programs
World Wide Web Site:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov
National Institute of Justice
World Wide Web Site:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij
-------------------------------
Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator
Developed and Approbed by the National Medicolegal Review Panel
Executive Director
Steven C. Clark, Ph.D.
Occupational Research and Assessment, Inc.
Big Rapids, Michigan
Associate Professor
Ferris State University
November 1999
The title of this report, formerly "National Guidelines for Death
Investigation," has been changed in this reprint for consistency with the
titles of other Guides in the NIJ series.
-------------------------------
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
National Institute of Justice
Jeremy Travis, J.D.
Director
Richard M. Rau, Ph.D.
Project Monitor
This project was cosponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the Bureau of Justice Assistance.
"Every Scene, Every Time" logo designed and created by Steven Clark,
Ph.D., and Kevin Spicer of Occupational Research and Assessment, Inc.
This project was supported under grant number 96-MU-CS-0005 by the
National Institute of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department
of Justice, and by the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention.
Opinions or points of view expressed in this document are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S.
Department of Justice.
NCJ 167568
-------------------------------
The National Institute of Justice is a component of the Office of Justice
Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the
Bureau of Justice Statistics, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention, and the Office for Victims of Crime.
-------------------------------
Message From the Attorney General
The sudden or unexplained death of an individual has a profound impact
on families and friends of the deceased and places significant
responsibility on the agencies tasked with determining the cause of death.
Increasingly, science and technology play a key role in death
investigations. One of the hallmarks of science is adherence to clear and
well-grounded protocols.
In many jurisdictions, responsibility for conducting death investigations
may rest with pathologists, medical examiners, or coroners, in addition to
their other duties. There is little training available in the best procedures
for handling these crucial and sensitive tasks. To help fill the gap, the
National Institute of Justice, joined by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, supported the
development of the guidelines presented in this report.
These guidelines were produced with the vigorous participation of highly
experienced officials and professionals who served on the National
Medicolegal Review Panel. A technical working group of 144
professionals from across the country provided the grassroots input to the
panel's work. I applaud their willingness to take the time to serve in this
effort and to hammer out this consensus on the best approach to
conducting thorough and competent death investigations.
Jurisdictions will want to carefully consider these guidelines and their
applicability to local agencies and circumstances. By adhering to
agreed-upon national standards, death investigators can arrive at the truth
about a suspicious death. Families and friends can be consoled by
knowing what happened to their loved one, and justice can be
administered on the foundation of truth that must always guide our work.
Janet Reno
Attorney General
-------------------------------
National Medicolegal Review Panel
The National Medicolegal Review Panel (NMRP) represents a
multidisciplinary group of content area experts, each representing
members of his or her respective organization. Each organization has a
role--be it active involvement or oversight--in conducting death
investigations and in implementing these guidelines.
United States Conference of Mayors
The Honorable Scott L. King (Chairman, NMRP)
Mayor
Gary, Indiana
American Academy of Forensic Sciences
Joseph H. Davis, M.D.
Retired Director, Dade County Medical Examiner Department
Miami, Florida
American Bar Association
Bruce H. Hanley, Esq.
Partner, Hanley & Dejoras, P.A.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
American Medical Association
Mary E. S. Case, M.D.
Chief Medical Examiner
St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin Counties, Missouri
St. Louis University School of Medicine
College of American Pathologists
Jeffrey M. Jentzen, M.D.
Medical Examiner
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
International Association of Chiefs of Police
Chief Thomas J. O'Loughlin
Wellesley, Massachusetts
International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners
Halbert E. Fillinger, Jr., M.D.
Coroner
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
National Association of Counties
Douglas A. Mack, M.D., M.P.H.
Chief Medical Examiner and Public Health Director
Kent County, Michigan
National Association of Medical Examiners
Richard C. Harruff, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Medical Examiner
Seattle/King County Department of Public Health
Seattle, Washington
National Conference of State Legislatures
Representative Jeanne M. Adkins
Colorado State Legislature
House Judiciary Committee
Denver, Colorado
National Governors' Association
Richard T. Callery, M.D., F.C.A.P.
Chief Medical Examiner
Wilmington, Delaware
National Sheriffs' Association
Donald L. Mauro
Commanding Officer, Homicide Bureau
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
Los Angeles, California
Colorado Coroners' Association
Elaine R. Meisner
Logan County Coroner
Sterling, Colorado
South Dakota Funeral Directors' Association
George H. Kuhler
Elected Coroner
Beadle County, South Dakota
-------------------------------
Acknowledgments
The author wishes to thank the Technical Working Group for Death
Investigation (TWGDI). This 144-member reviewer network gave of their
time to review guideline content, providing the researcher feedback from a
national perspective. Additional thanks to the TWGDI executive board:
Mr. Paul Davison, Kent County M.E. Office, Grand Rapids, Michigan;
Mr. Bill Donovan, Jefferson Parish Coroner's Office, Harvey, Louisiana;
Mr. Cullen Ellingburgh, Forensic Science Center, Orange County,
California; Ms. Roberta Geiselhart, R.N., Hennepin County M.E. Office,
Minneapolis, Minnesota; Dr. Elizabeth Kinnison, Office of the Chief
M.E., Norfolk, Virginia; Mr. Vernon McCarty, Washoe County Coroner,
Reno, Nevada; Mr. Joseph Morgan, Fulton County M.E. Office, Atlanta,
Georgia; Mr. Randy Moshos, M.E. Office, New York, New York; Mr.
Steve Nunez, Office of the Medical Investigator, Albuquerque, New
Mexico; Ms. Rose Marie Psara, R.N., St. Louis County M.E. Office, St.
Louis, Missouri; and Mr. Michael Stewart, Denver City and County
Coroner's Office, Denver, Colorado, whose combined commitment to the
field of death investigation is a tribute to the quality of this document. In
addition, the offices that employ each member of the group share in this
endeavor. Through their support, each member was given the flexibility
they needed to support the project.
The author also wishes to thank the National Institute of Justice's (NIJ's)
technical advisors: John E. Smialek, M.D., Chief Medical Examiner, State
of Maryland; Randy L. Hanzlick, M.D., Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) and Emory University School of Medicine; Ms. Mary
Fran Ernst, Director of Medicolegal Education, St. Louis University
Medical School; and Ms. Mary Lou Kearns, Coroner, Kane County,
Illinois. Each made significant contributions to the project's inception,
eventual funding, and timely completion. Their dedication to the science
of death investigation and to the members of the investigative community
is apparent throughout this document.
The Director of NIJ, the Honorable Jeremy Travis; the Director of NIJ's
Office of Science and Technology, Mr. David G. Boyd; and NIJ's Forensic
Science Program Manager, Richard M. Rau, Ph.D., each share
responsibility for the success of this project. Credit also goes to R. Gib
Parrish, M.D., of CDC, for his support and commitment to the research.
In addition, the true strength of these guidelines is derived from the
stamina of the National Medicolegal Review Panel, whose members
represented 12 national organizations intimately involved in the
investigation of death and its outcomes. The panel also included two
representatives of elected coroners. NMRP's contribution was invaluable.
And finally, the leadership of Joseph H. Davis, M.D., Medical Examiner
Emeritus, Dade County, Florida, and Mr. Donald Murray, National
Association of Counties, for their unrelenting efforts to get this job done
and improve their profession, every scene, every time.
Steven C. Clark, Ph.D.
Executive Director
-------------------------------
Contents
Message From the Attorney General
National Medicolegal Review Panel
Acknowledgments
Foreword: Commentaries on the Need for Guidelines for Death
Investigation
o Jeanne M. Adkins, Representative, State Legislature
o Richard T. Callery, M.D., F.C.A.P., Chief Medical Examiner
o Mary E.S. Case, M.D., Chief Medical Examiner
o Joseph H. Davis, M.D., Professor of Pathology Emeritus and Retired
Director, Medical Examiner Department
o Halbert E. Fillinger, Jr., M.D., Forensic Pathologist and Coroner
o Bruce H. Hanley, Esq.
o Randy Hanzlick, M.D., Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
o Richard C. Harruff, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Medical Examiner
o Jeffrey M. Jentzen, M.D., Medical Examiner
o Mary Lou Kearns, R.N., M.P.H., Coroner
o Scott L. King, Chairman, NMRP, and Mayor
o George H. Kuhler, Elected Coroner
o Douglas A. Mack, M.D., M.P.H., Chief Medical Examiner and Public
Health Director
o Donald L. Mauro, Commanding Officer, Homicide Bureau
o Elaine R. Meisner, Coroner
o Thomas J. O'Loughlin, Chief of Police
o John E. Smialek, M.D., Chief Medical Examiner
Introduction
Medicolegal Death Investigation Guidelines
o Section A: Investigative Tools and Equipment
o Section B: Arriving at the Scene
-- 1. Introduce and Identify Self and Role
-- 2. Exercise Scene Safety
-- 3. Confirm or Pronounce Death
-- 4. Participate in Scene Briefing (With Attending Agency
Representatives)
-- 5. Conduct Scene "Walk Through"
-- 6. Establish Chain of Custody
-- 7. Follow Laws (Related to the Collection of Evidence)
o Section C: Documenting and Evaluating the Scene
-- 1. Photograph Scene
-- 2. Develop Descriptive Documentation of the Scene
-- 3. Establish Probable Location of Injury or Illness
-- 4. Collect, Inventory, and Safeguard Property and Evidence
-- 5. Interview Witness(es) at the Scene
o Section D: Documenting and Evaluating the Body
-- 1. Photograph the Body
-- 2. Conduct External Body Examination (Superficial)
-- 3. Preserve Evidence (on Body)
-- 4. Establish Decedent Identification
-- 5. Document Post Mortem Changes
-- 6. Participate in Scene Debriefing
-- 7. Determine Notification Procedures (Next of Kin)
-- 8. Ensure Security of Remains
o Section E: Establishing and Recording Decedent Profile Information
-- 1. Document the Discovery History
-- 2. Determine Terminal Episode History
-- 3. Document Decedent Medical History
-- 4. Document Decedent Mental Health History
-- 5. Document Social History
o Section F: Completing the Scene Investigation
-- 1. Maintain Jurisdiction Over the Body
-- 2. Release Jurisdiction of the Body
-- 3. Perform Exit Procedures
-- 4. Assist the Family
-------------------------------
Foreword:
Commentaries on the Need for Guidelines for Death Investigation
Commentary
Jeanne M. Adkins
Representative
State Legislature, Colorado
Few things in our democracy are as important as ensuring that citizens
have confidence in their institutions in a crisis. For many individuals the
death of a loved one is just such a crisis. Ensuring that the proper steps and
procedures are taken at the scene of that death to reassure family members
that the death was a natural one, a suicide, or a homicide is a key element
in maintaining citizen confidence in local officials.
How local death investigators do their job is crucial to family members
who are mourning a loss today and who may be seeking justice tomorrow.
Most of us cringe at the idea of death investigations where important steps
were omitted that might have led to arrests and ultimately convictions in
those deaths. Justice denied breeds contempt for the institutions created to
ensure that justice is done.
It is with such thoughts in mind that I encourage State legislators to focus
some attention on this issue and look at adopting model legislation that
establishes death investigation procedures and encourages all local
jurisdictions to spend some resources training those on the front lines to
follow those procedures. Success in this national effort depends on the
initiative of State legislators to take the first steps by making this a
priority.
Commentary
Richard T. Callery, M.D., F.C.A.P.
Chief Medical Examiner
Director, Forensic Sciences Laboratory
Wilmington, Delaware
As the representative of the National Governors' Association, I am
honored to have been chosen to participate in the National Medicolegal
Review Panel. The hard work and commitment by the panel resulted in
guidelines that are long overdue for setting the standard of practice for
death investigation of "other than natural" cases. We are all acutely aware
of the ramifications of our proposed national guidelines. Each death,
especially those other than natural, has a profound impact on society,
particularly the criminal justice system. Standardization nationwide is long
overdue. This panel can take pride in producing a work product of such
high quality that will assist in establishing a standard of practice for death
investigation in the United States.
Commentary
Mary E. S. Case, M.D.
Chief Medical Examiner
St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin Counties, Missouri
As the representative member from the American Medical Association
serving on the National Medicolegal Review Panel, I have had the
opportunity to observe and become familiar with the development of the
Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator. I am delighted
with this effort and enthusiastically support and endorse the guidelines that
have been developed.
As a faculty member at St. Louis University Health Sciences Center in the
Division of Forensic Pathology, I have been part of our Medicolegal Death
Investigators Course since its inception in 1978. I am aware of the
tremendous importance of medicolegal death investigation in the proper
administration of justice and criminal proceedings, adjudicating estates,
and handling of death certification; and, unfortunately, I am aware of the
all too common poor level at which some jurisdictions function in death
investigation.
One of the most certain methods of ensuring uniform and proper
procedural compliance in death investigation is to establish guidelines that
can be followed in every instance. A good example of the use of
guidelines in death investigation is the death investigation of an infant, for
which many jurisdictions have established a protocol for conducting the
scene investigation. By definition, a diagnosis of Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome (SIDS) can be made only after the scene investigation, autopsy,
microscopic, toxicology, and medical history have been conducted, and all
have been unrevealing as to a cause of death.
The first step toward uniform excellence in death investigation is to
establish guidelines that can be followed by even those jurisdictions
having minimal resources. The efforts of the National Medicolegal Death
Investigation Guidelines Project to create a structured protocol for the
necessary tasks to be accomplished at death scenes have been highly
successful in fulfilling that goal.
Commentary
Joseph H. Davis, M.D.
Retired Director, Dade County
Medical Examiner Department
Professor of Pathology Emeritus,
University of Miami
The objectives of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences are
enunciated in the Preamble of its Bylaws and include: "to improve the
practice, elevate the standards and advance the cause of the forensic
sciences . . . ." Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator
most certainly supports the objectives of the academy when sudden,
unexpected, and violent deaths are investigated by forensic pathologists
and other scientists. Sudden death investigation is multidisciplinary, with
involvement of scientists representing all sections of the academy--
pathology, odontology, criminalistics, toxicology, psychiatry, questioned
documents, jurisprudence, and even engineering. None of these scientists
can be truly effective if the death investigation is faulted by errors of
omission or commission during the initial scene investigation.
Eventually, the States of the Union will see the wisdom of uniform quality
of standards and training for medicolegal death investigators. However,
such standards are impossible unless consensus is reached as to what
subjects should be taught and how investigators should be judged as to
entry and performance in the field of death investigation. These guidelines
are the first step for the eventual implementation of proper standards and
training throughout the United States.
Commentary
Halbert E. Fillinger, Jr., M.D.
Forensic Pathologist
Coroner
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
I have been honored to represent the International Association of Coroners
and Medical Examiners on the National Medicolegal Review Panel. The
end product of the efforts of this panel in developing universal guidelines
for death-scene investigation fills a long-vacant gap in the training and
investigation of sudden, suspicious death.
It has been apparent to me in my 40 years of experience as a forensic
pathologist, assistant medical examiner and coroner, as well as
death-scene investigation trainer, that systematic, specific guidelines are
essential to good death-scene investigation. The guidelines promulgated
by the National Medicolegal Review Panel fill a need that has long been
recognized by most of our colleagues in the field, and this can only greatly
enhance and improve the quality of our work.
With many of the deaths today having more and more civil as well as
criminal implications, top-quality death-scene investigation becomes a
must in any jurisdiction, and I feel that the product of the National
Medicolegal Review Panel will fill this need.
I am incorporating the guidelines developed thus far in the mandatory
training program for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as directed by
the Attorney General's Office, and find that the guidelines are well
structured and comprehensive, yet simple to follow. One can
systematically start with an experienced investigator or a very
inexperienced one and, by following these guidelines, a competent quality
death-scene investigation can be carried out.
Without the efforts of the National Medicolegal Review Panel, no
systematic, universal, top-quality investigation can be expected with the
diverse backgrounds of the coroners and medical examiners in the United
States.
Commentary
Bruce H. Hanley, Esq.
Partner, Hanley & Dejoras, P.A.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
The development of Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene
Investigator will be of great benefit to all citizens. The guidelines will help
to promote consistency, accuracy, predictability, and reliability in
death-scene investigations. As a criminal defense lawyer, it is a chief
concern that a person is not wrongfully accused of having participated in a
homicide. Complete, thorough, and careful death-scene investigations can
lead to greater faith in the system by family and friends of those whose
deaths may have been caused by homicide, suicide, accident, or natural
causes. Elimination of unanswered questions, confusion, sloppiness, and
the lack of attention to detail all can contribute to the genuine acceptance
that the cause of death has been properly determined. Moreover, in the
case of homicide, all can have a strong belief in the accuracy of the
identification of the perpetrator. The guidelines will assist the actual
investigators in following the proper protocol and consistently obtaining
all available evidence to show that the death was the result of either
unlawful or lawful activity. Proper adherence to the guidelines, coupled
with proper training to implement the guidelines, will serve to satisfy
finders of fact in criminal cases that the State has presented accurate,
reliable, and trustworthy evidence. Additionally, it will serve to defuse
attacks by defense counsel on the investigative methods and techniques,
chain of custody, and the reliability of any testing that may have been
conducted during the course of the investigation. It may also serve to
prevent innocent people from being accused of criminal activity when, in
fact, a crime was not committed, or the person suspected was not involved.
The truth is the outcome sought, and the guidelines will assist the system
in obtaining the truth. In a criminal investigation, when the government
follows the rules and properly conducts its investigation, it will win most
of the time. When it does not follow the rules or properly conduct its
investigation, it should lose.
Commentary
Randy Hanzlick, M.D.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Atlanta, Georgia
Variations in statutes, levels of funding, geography and population
density, and death investigator education, training, and experience result in
variations in the quality and extent of medicolegal death investigations.
Front-line, on-scene death investigations are performed by people whose
jobs range from part-time to full-time, and whose education, training, and
experience vary substantially and range from minimal to extensive. The
outcome of death investigations may impact personal liberty and
well-being, adjudication of cases, public health and safety, mortality
statistics, research capabilities, and governmental approaches to legislation
and programs. Therefore, high-quality death investigation throughout the
United States is a desirable goal for many reasons.
The creation of guidelines for medicolegal death investigations is one
method of promoting uniformity in the approach to death investigations
and improving or assuring their quality at the same time. Guidelines may
also be used as a basis for developing educational programs, to evaluate
work performance, and as a basis for credentialing or certification of death
investigators. To those ends, the National Medicolegal Review Panel has
taken an important step by developing this initial set of death investigation
guidelines as a model for nationwide use, pursuant to a grant funded by
the National Institute of Justice and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.
The development of such guidelines will not be enough in and of
themselves, however. The best intended and designed guidelines will have
little effect if death investigators are not provided with funds adequate to
meet the provisions of the guidelines. Funding for the education and
training of death investigation practices and for the implementation of the
guidelines will be necessary, and funding needs pose a significant obstacle
to the long-term goal of nationwide improvement in death investigation
practices. Governments at every level of organization will need to explore
methods for acquiring or providing funds and providing the education,
training, and manpower to effectively implement these and any subsequent
guidelines. In the meantime, these guidelines provide a starting point from
which we can proceed.
Commentary
Richard C. Harruff, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Medical Examiner
Seattle/King County
Department of Public Health
Seattle, Washington
A competent and thorough death-scene investigation provides the basis for
a comprehensive medicolegal autopsy, and together the scene
investigation and autopsy provide the basis for an accurate determination
of cause and manner of death. Furthermore, following specific guidelines
helps assure that all relevant aspects of all deaths are fully investigated.
Representing the National Association of Medical Examiners on the
National Medicolegal Review Panel, I believe that the national guidelines
for death-scene investigation offer medical examiners and coroners a
valuable means for substantially enhancing performance in fulfilling their
far-ranging responsibilities. As the guidelines have been formulated with
the consensus of several prominent forensic and legal experts, they
represent a major advancement in scientific death investigation and
deserve the attention of all who claim competency in this field.
Commentary
Jeffrey M. Jentzen, M.D.
Medical Examiner
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
As a member of the Forensic Pathology Committee of the College of
American Pathologists, I would like to encourage my colleagues to
consider the impact that national guidelines would have on the
investigation of sudden and unexpected deaths. Most pathologists assist
law enforcement officials in medicolegal death investigations during their
careers in some form or another. We are aware that an investigation
requires the proper coordination of a number of agencies and that the
breakdown of the investigative procedures may jeopardize the successful
outcome of the case. Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene
Investigator provides procedures for uniform death-scene processing,
which ensures competent and complete examination of the death scene in
a judicious manner that also respects the concerns of the family and loved
ones. The guidelines set forth in this document have been developed by a
diverse panel of professional death investigators who understand the
common pitfalls of everyday medicolegal death investigation. Medicolegal
death investigation has become a sophisticated process subject to critical
review and high expectations of the community, the legal system, and
family members. These guidelines provide the essential tasks for
death-scene investigation and go a long way toward ensuring quality
death-scene investigations.
Commentary
Mary Lou Kearns, R.N., M.P.H.
Coroner
Kane County, Illinois
Historically, the Office of Coroner has been charged with the
responsibilities and duties of answering pertinent questions related to
death investigation: Who, What, When, Where, How, and Why. Only
when these questions have been answered correctly can all the proper legal
issues that arise at death be handled expertly and completely for the
administration of justice. As the representative of the coroners of America
on the NIJ Peer Review Panel, I applaud the efforts that have produced
Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator. These guidelines
provide the necessary policies and procedures for universal and
professional death-scene investigations, as well as the criteria for when to
be suspicious. And by having properly coordinated death-scene
investigative procedures, the community, the legal system, and family
members will be well served.
I have long been committed to this quest for universal guidelines and the
eventual training of death investigators nationwide. Coroners who are well
trained in their jobs make fewer mistakes. The more training and
confidence coroners have, the better our offices will run. An ideal
coroner's office is well prepared to investigate and evaluate a scene, to
examine a body, to write quality reports, and to interact with the family,
all in a professional manner. These national guidelines for
death-scene investigations will go a long way toward enhancing our
professionalism.
Commentary
Mayor Scott L. King, Chairman, NMRP
Mayor
Gary, Indiana
As the representative of the United States Conference of Mayors, I was
pleased to serve as Chairman of the National Medicolegal Review Panel,
particularly given the expertise and wide range of diverse experience of
the balance of the panel. Because the duties of a mayor include
responsibility for public safety functions, and because I served for 20 years
as both a prosecution and defense attorney before assuming my present
office, I am acutely aware of the importance of establishing and utilizing
appropriate protocol for death-scene investigations. These guidelines will,
I hope, accomplish the goal of uniformity in the conduct of such
investigations nationwide without requiring significant additional
expenditure of budget funds.
Commentary
George H. Kuhler
Elected Coroner
Beadle County, South Dakota
I would like to encourage all elected coroners to consider supporting
national guidelines for coroner investigations. As a funeral director and
elected coroner, I know firsthand how important proper investigation is to
the law enforcement community, as well as to the forensic medical/legal
investigation of the death. With no "official training" required for elected
coroners, it is difficult for the elected coroner to know what should be
done in investigations. Most elected coroners have begun their jobs with
little or no knowledge as to how and what they need to do. Having a set of
national guidelines for medicolegal death investigation would ensure that
at least the elected coroner would have a "cookbook" to follow and would
have some idea of what is expected of him/her in every case.
I would encourage the adoption and use of the following guidelines for all
coroners, medical examiners, and death investigators. These guidelines
have been developed by a panel of members from all of these fields from
across the United States. The use of these guidelines on every scene will
ensure quality and uniform death investigation every time.
Commentary
Douglas A. Mack, M.D., M.P.H.
Chief Medical Examiner and Public Health Director
Kent County, Michigan
As a representative of the National Association of Counties and as Chief
Medical Examiner for Kent County, Michigan, I enthusiastically endorse
the medicolegal guidelines developed by the National Medicolegal
Review Panel for death-scene investigation and medical examiner system
processes. An efficient, well-managed, and high-quality medical examiner
system is a critical element in death investigation and benefits the law
enforcement, criminal justice, and public health systems. This protocol
provides direction for the interaction of these systems, and helps assure
that the work of those involved results in high-quality investigations and
outcomes.
Commentary
Donald L. Mauro
Commanding Officer, Homicide Bureau
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
Los Angeles, California
As a representative of the National Sheriffs' Association, I have been
honored to participate with the very capable and diverse group that
comprises the National Medicolegal Review Panel. The results of our
efforts are the national guidelines, which will direct the efforts of fellow
death investigators in "other than natural" death investigations. The
procedures developed by the panel constitute a baseline protocol that
should serve to support and direct the efforts of all of us who work in this
field. Because each death has profound implications for family and
friends, and because each investigation ultimately has financial, legal, and
societal implications, we can take satisfaction in knowing that standards
now exist for death investigators across the country, which, when
followed, will yield comprehensive, high-quality death-scene
investigations.
Commentary
Elaine R. Meisner
Logan County Coroner
Sterling, Colorado
As a member of the Colorado Coroners' Association, it is with a great deal
of pride and sense of accomplishment that I have been their representative
on the National Medicolegal Review Panel for death investigation
guidelines. In the rural areas, the importance and necessity of thorough
and proper death investigations have not always been thought of as an area
of much importance, not so much by the agencies doing the investigations,
but by the agencies who financially support them. As a lifelong resident of
a rural community, I value and appreciate the importance and need of a
thorough and proper death investigation. These guidelines have been long
awaited by many death investigators across the country. The National
Medicolegal Review Panel has worked hard to develop a sound,
well-described set of death investigation guidelines. Today, the modern
range of knowledge is much greater, techniques are precise and
specialized. These methodically well-planned guidelines were much
needed to ensure and maintain uniformity and to help decrease chance for
error. This has been a unique experience with the display of utmost
professionalism and collaboration by committee members. Without the
unstinting cooperation and help of all concerned, it would have been
impossible to finish this project. It is in the best interests of death
investigators nationwide to utilize these appropriately developed
guidelines for the purpose of improving death investigations and for other
agencies to properly support them.
Commentary
Thomas J. O'Loughlin
Chief of Police
Wellesley, Massachusetts
The proposed Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator has
been developed with the input of members of the various and many
disciplines that are involved in the investigation of sudden and unexpected
deaths.
The investigation of the death of another human being is a weighty
responsibility. It has been a pleasure to represent and serve the interests of
the International Association of Chiefs of Police in participating in the
development of Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator.
As a police officer and chief of police, I am well aware of the multifaceted
and multidisciplinary approach that is necessary in many of these
investigations. As professionals, we are all aware of investigations that
have been met with professional success and those that have been,
unfortunately, less than professional.
As important as the actual performance of the investigative procedures is
an understanding of the diverse and mutual responsibilities held by
involved and participating professionals. Death Investigation: A Guide for
the Scene Investigator will provide standardized procedures so that each
and every participant in the death-scene investigation will have a clear and
concise understanding of the professionally accepted standards and
procedures necessary in conducting a death-scene investigation.
In the long term, it is the expected goal that each of the participants within
the death investigation process will meet these established professional
standards and their obligation to fulfill their responsibilities in a competent
and professional manner.
Commentary
John E. Smialek, M.D.
Chief Medical Examiner
State of Maryland
A major step in the advancement of the American system of justice was
taken recently with the recognition of standard guidelines for scene
investigation in medical examiner and coroner cases.
Awareness of inadequate death investigation operations in jurisdictions
around the country resulted in a project supported by the National Institute
of Justice that has produced the new guidelines.
The panel of experts assembled by NIJ considered the need for standards
that were comprehensive but flexible and capable of being adapted to
operations that utilize a variety of investigative officials including police
officers, sheriffs, justices of the peace, physicians, and pathologists.
Further progress in achieving a system of death investigation that meets
the needs of law enforcement agencies and families will depend on the
willingness of State and local government officials to support the
introduction of these guidelines and provide the necessary resources to
implement them.
As a representative of the National Association of Medical Examiners, I
strongly urge the careful study and acceptance of these standards.
-------------------------------
Introduction
"Is it [death investigation] an enlightened system? No, it's not. It's really
no better than what they have in many Third World countries."
--Dr. Werner Spitz, Former Chief Medical Examiner, Wayne County
(Detroit), Michigan
The first thing one must realize is that the word "system" is a misnomer,
when used in the context of death investigation in the United States. There
is no "system" of death investigation that covers the more than 3,000
jurisdictions in this country.[1] No nationally accepted guidelines or
standards of practice exist for individuals responsible for performing
death-scene investigations. No professional degree, license, certification,
or minimum educational requirements exist, nor is there a commonly
accepted training curriculum. Not even a common job title exists for the
thousands of people who routinely perform death investigations in this
country.[2],[3]
This report describes a study that focused on the establishment of
guidelines for conducting death investigations.
Purpose and Scope of the Study
The principal purpose of the study, initiated in June 1996, was to identify,
delineate, and assemble a set of investigative tasks that should and could
be performed at every death scene. These tasks would serve as the
foundation of the guide for death scene investigators. The Director of the
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) selected an independent review panel
whose members represented international and national organizations
whose constituents are responsible for the investigation of death and its
outcomes. The researcher organized two multidisciplinary technical
working groups (TWGs). The first consisted of members representing the
investigative community at large, and the second consisted of an executive
board representing the investigative community at large.
The study involved the use of two standardized consensus-seeking
research techniques: (a) the Developing A CurriculUM (DACUM)[4]
process, and (b) a Delphi[5] survey.
In this report, the author does not attempt to assign responsibility for task
(guideline) performance to any one occupational job title (e.g., Guideline
D4 is performed by law enforcement personnel). Research design and
selected methodology focused on the establishment of performance
guidelines for death-scene investigations. The research design did not
allow TWGs to assume investigative outcomes during the development
phase of the project; therefore, no attempt was made to assign a "manner"
of death to individual guidelines (e.g., Guideline C2 applies to homicide
scenes), to maintain objectivity and national practicality.
The author does not claim to be an expert in the science and/or
methodology of medicolegal death investigation. This research was based
on the collective knowledge of three multidisciplinary content area expert
groups. The focus was on the death scene, the body, and the interactive
skills and knowledge that must be applied to ensure a successful case
outcome.
The balance of this introduction outlines the study design and provides
basic background information on the selection of the National Medicolegal
Review Panel (NMRP) and TWG memberships and the research
methodology, its selection, and application. The study findings
(investigative guidelines) follow this introduction.
Study Design
Identification of NMRP and TWGs
The methodology selected for this occupational research required
collection of data from a sample of current subject matter experts,
practitioners from the field who perform daily within the occupation being
investigated. This "criterion" was used to identify members of the various
multidisciplinary groups that provided the data for this research. The
following groups were formed for the purpose of developing national
guidelines for conducting death investigations.
National Medicolegal Review Panel
NMRP members represent an independent multidisciplinary group of both
international and national organizations whose constituents are responsible
for investigating death and its outcomes. Each member of NMRP was
selected by the Director based on nominations made by the various
associations. The rationale for their involvement was twofold: (a) they
represent the diversity of the profession nationally, and (b) their members
are the key stakeholders in the outcomes of this research. Each
organization has a role in conducting death investigations and in
implementing these guidelines.
Technical Working Group for Death Investigation (TWGDI)
1. National Reviewer Network
Technical Working Group for Death Investigation (TWGDI) members
represent a sample of death investigators from across the country. They are
the content area experts who perform within the occupation daily. The
following criteria were used to select the members of the TWGDI reviewer
network:
o Each member was nominated/selected for the position by a person
whose name appeared on the most recent (1995) Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) national database of death investigation.[6]
o Each member had specific knowledge regarding the investigation of
death.
o Each member had specific experience with the process of death
investigation and the outcomes of positive and negative scene
investigations.
o Each member could commit to four rounds of national surveying over a
6-month period.
A 50-percent random sample (1,512) of death investigators was drawn
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention database.[7] A letter
was sent to each member of the sample, inviting him or her to participate
in the national research to develop death investigative guidelines or to
nominate a person who participates in death investigations. Two hundred
and sixty-three individuals were nominated (17 percent). Nominees were
contacted by mail and asked to provide personal demographic data
including job title, years of experience, and educational background, in
addition to general information (name/address, etc.) necessary for
participation in the research.
The TWGDI national reviewer network consisted of 263 members from 46
States, representing 5 regions as follows:
The educational backgrounds of the national reviewer network members
were as follows:
The types of investigative systems represented on the reviewer network
were as follows:
The average age of TWGDI members was 47.6 years. They had an average
of 10.5 years of experience. There were 80.6 percent (212) males and 19.4
percent (51) females in the group.
2. Executive Board
Representatives from each region were selected to maintain consistency
within regions across the United States. These representatives made up the
TWGDI executive board.
Criteria for selection to the TWGDI executive board were as follows:
o Each member had specific knowledge regarding the investigation of
death.
o Each member had specific experience with the process of death
investigation and the outcomes of positive and negative scene
investigations.
o Each member could commit to attend four workshops held within the
grant period.
TWGDI Executive Board DACUM Workshop. In November 1996, the
TWGDI executive board met in St. Louis to begin developing the national
Delphi survey. The survey content was to reflect "best practice" for
death-scene investigation. DACUM is a process for analyzing an
occupation systematically. The 2-day workshop used the investigative
experts on the executive board to analyze job tasks while employing
modified brainstorming techniques. The board's efforts resulted in a
DACUM chart that describes the investigative occupation in terms of
specific tasks that competent investigators must be able to perform "every
scene, every time."[8] A task was defined as a unit of observable work
with a specific beginning and ending point that leads to an investigative
product, service, or decision. The DACUM chart served as the outline for
the Delphi survey.
This initial process resulted in six major areas of work. In attempts to
simplify the survey for the members of the national reviewer network, the
areas of work were placed into a logical sequence of events (as they might
be performed while investigating a case). Within the five major areas of
work (Investigative Tools and Equipment was excluded at this point
because tools and equipment are "things," not procedural steps), 29 tasks
were identified. Within the 29 identified investigative tasks were 149
discrete steps and/or elements. Theoretically, each step and/or element
must be performed for the task to be completed "successfully." The results
were placed in survey format for NMRP review and pilot testing.
National Medicolegal Review Panel Meeting. In December 1996, NMRP
met in Washington, D.C., to review the DACUM chart and comment on
the research methodology proposed by the researcher. The members of the
panel recommended modifications to the survey design and approved
response selections. Respondents would attempt to rate, by perceived
importance, each of the investigative tasks/steps and/or elements on a
five-point scale.
The Delphi Survey. The Delphi technique, although it employs
questionnaires, is much different from the typical questionnaire survey.
Developed by the RAND Corporation as a method of predicting future
defense needs, the technique is used whenever a consensus is needed from
persons who are knowledgeable about a particular subject.[9] The goal of
a Delphi survey is to engage the respondents in an anonymous debate in
order to arrive at consensus on particular issues or on predictions of future
events.
The Delphi requires at least four rounds in an effort to obtain a
well-thought-out consensus. After the first-round results were received,
coded, and recorded, a revised questionnaire was developed for round two.
The second-round survey provided each member of TWGDI with the
national median and mean scores for each of the task statements presented,
as well as their first-round responses. Respondents were asked to compare
their original ratings with the median and mean scores and to revise their
original evaluations as they saw fit. This procedure was repeated for each
of the four rounds of the survey.
The Delphi survey was conducted during the first 6 months of 1997. The
table below provides general TWGDI response data:
As shown in the preceding table, final membership in the TWGDI national
reviewer network was 146. This number represents approximately 56
percent of the originally nominated members.
Guideline Development. During the 6 months of the Delphi process, both
the TWGDI executive board and NMRP met to review survey data (to
date) and to begin the process of moving task-based data into guideline
format.
In May 1997, the executive board met for a 21/2-day working session in
New Orleans to begin the guideline development process.The consensus of
the board was to establish 29 guidelines based on the national reviewer
network data and present them to NMRP for review. Each guideline would
have the following content:
o A statement of principle, citing the rationale for performing the
guideline.
o A statement of authorization, citing specific policy empowering the
investigator.
o A statement of policy to the investigator regarding guideline
performance.
o The procedure for performing the guideline.
o A statement of summary, citing justification for performing the
procedures.
In June and July 1997, NMRP met for two 11/2-day working sessions in
St. Louis and Chicago to review the draft guidelines developed by the
executive board and offer recommendations and changes based on
jurisdictional variances and organizational responsibilities. Those sessions
resulted in the final draft of the 29 guidelines for conducting death
investigations. The 29 guidelines are presented in the next main section.
Guideline Status
Currently, NMRP members are presenting the guidelines to their
respective organizations' leadership (or appropriate internal committees)
for review. This researcher is collecting anecdotal comments for future
modification of the existing guidelines during the validation procedures.
Training Guidelines
The purpose of the second part of the national death investigator
guidelines research was to identify training criteria for each of the 29
guidelines. This research is now completed. For each of the guidelines
presented in this report,"minimum levels of performance" will be developed
and verified by the members of the various TWGs. These "training guidelines"
will provide both individuals and educational organizations the material needed to
establish and maintain valid exit outcomes for each investigative trainee.
Guideline Validation
In this initial research, 29 investigative tasks were identified. Each task
was developed into a guideline for investigators to follow while
conducting a death investigation. Although each TWG believed in the
validity of each guideline, no attempt was made to validate actual
significance (e.g., if guideline C1 is trained and implemented, a [%]
decrease in poor scene photographs should occur). The researcher is
currently developing a national validation strategy for the implementation
and validation of each guideline.
Notes
1. "It is important to note that even the use of the word 'system' to describe
a process that encompasses more than 3,000 individual jurisdictions is a
misnomer." Hansen, M., "Body of Evidence," American Bar Association
Journal (June 1995).
2. Jentzen, J.M., S.C. Clark, and M.F. Ernst, "Medicolegal Death
Investigator Pre-Employment Test Development," American Journal of
Forensic Medicine and Pathology 17 (1996):112-16.
3. Hanzlick, R., "Coroner Training Needs: A Numeric and Geographic
Analysis," Journal of the American Medical Association 276 (1996):1775-
1778.
4. The Ohio State University, Center on Education and Training for
Employment, DACUM, 1996.
5. Borg, W.R., and M.D. Gall, Educational Research: An Introduction,
New York: Longman Inc., 1983:413-415.
6. Combs, D., R.G. Parrish, and R.T. Ing, Death Investigation in the
United States and Canada, Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 1995.
7. Ibid.
8. Clark, S.C., Occupational Research and Assessment, Inc., Big Rapids,
Michigan, 1996.
9. Borg and Gall, 413-415.
-------------------------------
Section A: Investigative Tools and Equipment
1. Gloves (Universal Precautions).
2. Writing implements (pens, pencils, markers).
3. Body bags.
4. Communication equipment (cell phone, pager, radio).
5. Flashlight.
6. Body ID tags.
7. Camera--35mm (with extra batteries, film, etc.).
8. Investigative notebook (for scene notes, etc.).
9. Measurement instruments (tape measure, ruler, rolling measuring tape,
etc.).
10. Official identification (for yourself).
11. Watch.
12. Paper bags (for hands, feet, etc.).
13. Specimen containers (for evidence items and toxicology specimens).
14. Disinfectant (Universal Precautions).
15. Departmental scene forms.
16. Camera--Polaroid (with extra film).
17. Blood collection tubes (syringes and needles).
18. Inventory lists (clothes, drugs, etc.).
19. Paper envelopes.
20. Clean white linen sheet (stored in plastic bag).
21. Evidence tape.
22. Business cards/office cards w/phone numbers.
23. Foul-weather gear (raincoat, umbrella, etc.).
24. Medical equipment kit (scissors, forceps, tweezers, exposure suit,
scalpel handle, blades, disposable syringe, large gauge needles,
cotton-tipped swabs, etc.).
25. Phone listing (important phone numbers).
26. Tape or rubber bands.
27. Disposable (paper) jumpsuits, hair covers, face shield, etc.
28. Evidence seal (use with body bags/locks).
29. Pocketknife.
30. Shoe-covers.
31. Trace evidence kit (tape, etc.).
32. Waterless hand wash.
33. Thermometer.
34. Crime scene tape.
35. First aid kit.
36. Latent print kit.
37. Local maps.
38. Plastic trash bags.
39. Gunshot residue analysis kits (SEM/EDS).
40. Photo placards (signage to ID case in photo).
41. Boots (for wet conditions, construction sites, etc.).
42. Hand lens (magnifying glass).
43. Portable electric area lighting.
44. Barrier sheeting (to shield body/area from public view).
45. Purification mask (disposable).
46. Reflective vest.
47. Tape recorder.
48. Basic handtools (boltcutter, screwdrivers, hammer, shovel, trowel,
paintbrushes, etc.).
49. Body bag locks (to secure body inside bag).
50. Camera--Video (with extra battery).
51. Personal comfort supplies (insect spray, sun screen, hat, etc.).
52. Presumptive blood test kit.
-------------------------------
This handbook is intended as a guide to recommended practices for the
investigation of death scenes. Jurisdictional, logistical, or legal conditions
may preclude the use of particular procedures contained herein.
-------------------------------
Section B: Arriving at the Scene
1. Introduce and Identify Self and Role
Principle: Introductions at the scene allow the investigator to establish
formal contact with other official agency representatives. The investigator
must identify the first responder to ascertain if any artifacts or
contamination may have been introduced to the death scene. The
investigator must work with all key people to ensure scene safety prior to
his/her entrance into the scene.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall take the initiative to introduce himself or
herself, identify essential personnel, establish rapport, and determine scene
safety.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, and prior to entering the scene, the
investigator should:
A. Identify the lead investigator at the scene and present identification.
B. Identify other essential officials at the scene (e.g., law enforcement,
fire, EMS, social/child protective services, etc.) and explain the
investigator's role in the investigation.
C. Identify and document the identity of the first essential official(s) to the
scene (first "professional" arrival at the scene for investigative followup)
to ascertain if any artifacts or contamination may have been introduced to
the death scene.
D. Determine the scene safety (prior to entry).
Summary:
Introductions at the scene help to establish a collaborative investigative
effort. It is essential to carry identification in the event of questioned
authority. It is essential to establish scene safety prior to entry.
2. Exercise Scene Safety
Principle: Determining scene safety for all investigative personnel is
essential to the investigative process. The risk of environmental and
physical injury must be removed prior to initiating a scene investigation.
Risks can include hostile crowds, collapsing structures, traffic, and
environmental and chemical threats.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall attempt to establish scene safety prior to
entering the scene to prevent injury or loss of life, including contacting
appropriate agencies for assistance with other scene safety issues.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, the investigator should:
A. Assess and/or establish physical boundaries.
B. Identify incident command.
C. Secure vehicle and park as safely as possible.
D. Use personal protective safety devices (physical, biochemical safety).
E. Arrange for removal of animals or secure (if present and possible).
F. Obtain clearance/authorization to enter scene from the individual
responsible for scene safety (e.g., fire marshal, disaster coordinator).
G. While exercising scene safety, protect the integrity of the scene and
evidence to the extent possible from contamination or loss by people,
animals, and elements.
Note: Due to potential scene hazards (e.g., crowd control, collapsing
structures, poisonous gases, traffic), the body may have to be removed
before scene investigation can be continued.
Summary:
Environmental and physical threats to the investigator must be removed in
order to conduct a scene investigation safely. Protective devices must be
used by investigative staff to prevent injury. The investigator must
endeavor to protect the evidence against contamination or loss.
3. Confirm or Pronounce Death
Principle: Appropriate personnel must make a determination of death prior
to the initiation of the death investigation. The confirmation or
pronouncement of death determines jurisdictional responsibilities.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall ensure that appropriate personnel have
viewed the body and that death has been confirmed.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, the investigator should:
A. Locate and view the body.
B. Check for pulse, respiration, and reflexes, as appropriate.
C. Identify and document the individual who made the official
determination of death, including the date and time of determination.
D. Ensure death is pronounced, as required.
Summary:
Once death has been determined, rescue/resuscitative efforts cease and
medicolegal jurisdiction can be established. It is vital that this occur prior
to the medical examiner/coroner's assuming any responsibilities.
4. Participate in Scene Briefing (With Attending Agency Representatives)
Principle: Scene investigators must recognize the varying jurisdictional
and statutory responsibilities that apply to individual agency
representatives (e.g., law enforcement, fire, EMT, judicial/legal).
Determining each agency's investigative responsibility at the scene is
essential in planning the scope and depth of each scene investigation and
the release of information to the public.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall identify specific responsibilities, share
appropriate preliminary information, and establish investigative goals of
each agency present at the scene.
Procedure: When participating in scene briefing, the investigator should:
A. Locate the staging area (entry point to scene, command post, etc.).
B. Document the scene location (address, mile marker, building name)
consistent with other agencies.
C. Determine nature and scope of investigation by obtaining preliminary
investigative details (e.g., suspicious versus nonsuspicious death).
D. Ensure that initial accounts of incident are obtained from the first
witness(es).
Summary:
Scene briefing allows for initial and factual information exchange. This
includes scene location, time factors, initial witness information, agency
responsibilities, and investigative strategy.
5. Conduct Scene "Walk Through"
Principle: Conducting a scene "walk through" provides the investigator
with an overview of the entire scene. The "walk through" provides the
investigator with the first opportunity to locate and view the body, identify
valuable and/or fragile evidence, and determine initial investigative
procedures providing for a systematic examination and documentation of
the scene and body.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall conduct a scene "walk through" to establish
pertinent scene parameters.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, the investigator should:
A. Reassess scene boundaries and adjust as appropriate.
B. Establish a path of entry and exit.
C. Identify visible physical and fragile evidence.
D. Document and photograph fragile evidence immediately and collect if
appropriate.
E. Locate and view the decedent.
Summary:
The initial scene "walk through" is essential to minimize scene disturbance
and to prevent the loss and/or contamination of physical and fragile
evidence.
6. Establish Chain of Custody
Principle: Ensuring the integrity of the evidence by establishing and
maintaining a chain of custody is vital to an investigation. This will
safeguard against subsequent allegations of tampering, theft, planting, and
contamination of evidence.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: Prior to the removal of any evidence, the custodian(s) of evidence
shall be designated and shall generate and maintain a chain of custody for
all evidence collected.
Procedure: Throughout the investigation, those responsible for preserving
the chain of custody should:
A. Document location of the scene and time of arrival of the death
investigator at the scene.
B. Determine custodian(s) of evidence, determine which agency(ies) is/are
responsible for collection of specific types of evidence, and determine
evidence collection priority for fragile/fleeting evidence.
C. Identify, secure, and preserve evidence with proper containers, labels,
and preservatives.
D. Document the collection of evidence by recording its location at the
scene, time of collection, and time and location of disposition.
E. Develop personnel lists, witness lists, and documentation of times of
arrival and departure of personnel.
Summary:
It is essential to maintain a proper chain of custody for evidence. Through
proper documentation, collection, and preservation, the integrity of the
evidence can be assured. A properly maintained chain of custody and
prompt transfer will reduce the likelihood of a challenge to the integrity of
the evidence.
7. Follow Laws (Related to the Collection of Evidence)
Principle: The investigator must follow local, State, and Federal laws for
the collection of evidence to ensure its admissibility. The investigator
must work with law enforcement and the legal authorities to determine
laws regarding collection of evidence.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator working with other agencies must identify and
work under appropriate legal authority. Modification of informal
procedures may be necessary but laws must always be followed.
Procedure: The investigator, prior to or upon arrival at the death scene,
should work with other agencies to:
A. Determine the need for a search warrant (discuss with appropriate
agencies).
B. Identify local, State, Federal, and international laws (discuss with
appropriate agencies).
C. Identify medical examiner/coroner statutes and/or office standard
operating procedures (discuss with appropriate agencies).
Summary:
Following laws related to the collection of evidence will ensure a complete
and proper investigation in compliance with State and local laws,
admissibility in court, and adherence to office policies and protocols.
Section C: Documenting and Evaluating the Scene
1. Photograph Scene
Principle: The photographic documentation of the scene creates a
permanent historical record of the scene. Photographs provide detailed
corroborating evidence that constructs a system of redundancy should
questions arise concerning the report, witness statements, or position of
evidence at the scene.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain detailed photographic documentation
of the scene that provides both instant and permanent high-quality (e.g., 35
mm) images.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, and prior to moving the body or
evidence, the investigator should:
A. Remove all nonessential personnel from the scene.
B. Obtain an overall (wide-angle) view of the scene to spatially locate the
specific scene to the surrounding area.
C. Photograph specific areas of the scene to provide more detailed views
of specific areas within the larger scene.
D. Photograph the scene from different angles to provide various
perspectives that may uncover additional evidence.
E. Obtain some photographs with scales to document specific evidence.
F. Obtain photographs even if the body or other evidence has been moved.
Note: If evidence has been moved prior to photography, it should be noted
in the report, but the body or other evidence should not be reintroduced
into the scene in order to take photographs.
Summary:
Photography allows for the best permanent documentation of the death
scene. It is essential that accurate scene photographs are available for other
investigators, agencies, and authorities to recreate the scene. Photographs
are a permanent record of the terminal event and retain evidentiary value
and authenticity. It is essential that the investigator obtain accurate
photographs before releasing the scene.
2. Develop Descriptive Documentation of the Scene
Principle: Written documentation of the scene(s) provides a permanent
record that may be used to correlate with and enhance photographic
documentation, refresh recollections, and record observations.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: Investigators shall provide written scene documentation.
Procedure: After photographic documentation of the scene and prior to
removal of the body or other evidence, the investigator should:
A. Diagram/describe in writing items of evidence and their relationship to
the body with necessary measurements.
B. Describe and document, with necessary measurements, blood and body
fluid evidence including volume, patterns, spatters, and other
characteristics.
C. Describe scene environments including odors, lights, temperatures, and
other fragile evidence.
Note: If evidence has been moved prior to written documentation, it
should be noted in the report.
Summary:
Written scene documentation is essential to correlate with photographic
evidence and to recreate the scene for police, forensic(s), and judicial and
civil agencies with a legitimate interest.
3. Establish Probable Location of Injury or Illness
Principle: The location where the decedent is found may not be the actual
location where the injury/illness that contributed to the death occurred. It
is imperative that the investigator attempt to determine the locations of any
and all injury(ies)/illness(es) that may have contributed to the death.
Physical evidence at any and all locations may be pertinent in establishing
the cause, manner, and circumstances of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain detailed information regarding any
and all probable locations associated with the individual's death.
Procedure: The investigator should:
A. Document location where death was confirmed.
B. Determine location from which decedent was transported and how body
was transported to scene.
C. Identify and record discrepancies in rigor mortis, livor mortis, and body
temperature.
D. Check body, clothing, and scene for consistency/inconsistency of trace
evidence and indicate location where artifacts are found.
E. Check for drag marks (on body and ground).
F. Establish post-injury activity.
G. Obtain dispatch (e.g., police, ambulance) record(s).
H. Interview family members and associates as needed.
Summary:
Due to post-injury survival, advances in emergency medical services,
multiple modes of transportation, the availability of specialized care, or
criminal activity, a body may be moved from the actual location of
illness/injury to a remote site. It is imperative that the investigator attempt
to determine any and all locations where the decedent has previously been
and the mode of transport from these sites.
4. Collect, Inventory, and Safeguard Property and Evidence
Principle: The decedent's valuables/property must be safeguarded to
ensure proper processing and eventual return to next of kin. Evidence on
or near the body must be safeguarded to ensure its availability for further
evaluation.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall ensure that all property and evidence is
collected, inventoried, safeguarded, and released as required by law.
Procedure: After personal property and evidence have been identified at
the scene, the investigator (with a witness) should:
A. Inventory, collect, and safeguard illicit drugs and paraphernalia at scene
and/or office.
B. Inventory, collect, and safeguard prescription medication at scene
and/or office.
C. Inventory, collect, and safeguard over-the-counter medications at scene
and/or office.
D. Inventory, collect, and safeguard money at scene and at office.
E. Inventory, collect, and safeguard personal valuables/property at scene
and at office.
Summary:
Personal property and evidence are important items at a death
investigation. Evidence must be safeguarded to ensure its availability if
needed for future evaluation and litigation. Personal property must be
safeguarded to ensure its eventual distribution to appropriate agencies or
individuals and to reduce the likelihood that the investigator will be
accused of stealing property.
5. Interview Witness(es) at the Scene
Principle: The documented comments of witnesses at the scene allow the
investigator to obtain primary source data regarding discovery of body,
witness corroboration, and terminal history. The documented interview
provides essential information for the investigative process.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator's report shall include the source of information,
including specific statements and information provided by the witness.
Procedure: Upon arriving at the scene, the investigator should:
A. Collect all available identifying data on witnesses (e.g., full name,
address, DOB, work and home telephone numbers, etc.).
B. Establish witness' relationship/association to the deceased.
C. Establish the basis of witness' knowledge (how does witness have
knowledge of the death?).
D. Obtain information from each witness.
E. Note discrepancies from the scene briefing (challenge, explain, verify
statements).
F. Tape statements where such equipment is available and retain them.
Summary:
The final report must document witness' identity and must include a
summary of witness' statements, corroboration with other witnesses, and
the circumstances of discovery of the death. This documentation must
exist as a permanent record to establish a chain of events.
Section D: Documenting and Evaluating the Body
1. Photograph the Body
Principle: The photographic documentation of the body at the scene
creates a permanent record that preserves essential details of the body
position, appearance, identity, and final movements. Photographs allow
sharing of information with other agencies investigating the death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain detailed photographic documentation
of the body that provides both instant and permanent high-quality (e.g., 35
mm) images.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene, and prior to moving the body or
evidence, the investigator should:
A. Photograph the body and immediate scene (including the decedent as
initially found).
B. Photograph the decedent's face.
C. Take additional photographs after removal of objects/items that
interfere with photographic documentation of the decedent (e.g., body
removed from car).
D. Photograph the decedent with and without measurements (as
appropriate).
E. Photograph the surface beneath the body (after the body has been
removed, as appropriate).
Note: Never clean face, do not change condition. Take multiple shots if
possible.
Summary:
The photographic documentation of the body at the scene provides for
documentation of the body position, identity, and appearance. The details
of the body at the scene provide investigators with pertinent information of
the terminal events.
2. Conduct External Body Examination (Superficial)
Principle: Conducting the external body examination provides the
investigator with objective data regarding the single most important piece
of evidence at the scene, the body. This documentation provides detailed
information regarding the decedent's physical attributes, his/her
relationship to the scene, and possible cause, manner, and circumstances
of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain detailed photographs and written
documentation of the decedent at the scene.
Procedure: After arrival at the scene and prior to moving the decedent, the
investigator should, without removing decedent's clothing:
A. Photograph the scene, including the decedent as initially found and the
surface beneath the body after the body has been removed.
Note: If necessary, take additional photographs after removal of
objects/items that interfere with photographic documentation of the
decedent.
B. Photograph the decedent with and without measurements (as
appropriate), including a photograph of the decedent's face.
C. Document the decedent's position with and without measurements (as
appropriate).
D. Document the decedent's physical characteristics.
E. Document the presence or absence of clothing and personal effects.
F. Document the presence or absence of any items/objects that may be
relevant.
G. Document the presence or absence of marks, scars, and tattoos.
H. Document the presence or absence of injury/trauma, petechiae, etc.
I. Document the presence of treatment or resuscitative efforts.
J. Based on the findings, determine the need for further
evaluation/assistance of forensic specialists (e.g., pathologists,
odontologists).
Summary:
Thorough evaluation and documentation (photographic and written) of the
deceased at the scene is essential to determine the depth and direction the
investigation will take.
3. Preserve Evidence (on Body)
Principle: The photographic and written documentation of evidence on the
body allows the investigator to obtain a permanent historical record of that
evidence. To maintain chain of custody, evidence must be collected,
preserved, and transported properly. In addition to all of the physical
evidence visible on the body, blood and other body fluids present must be
photographed and documented prior to collection and transport. Fragile
evidence (that which can be easily contaminated, lost, or altered) must also
be collected and/or preserved to maintain chain of custody and to assist in
determination of cause, manner, and circumstances of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: With photographic and written documentation, the investigator
will provide a permanent record of evidence that is on the body.
Procedure: Once evidence on the body is recognized, the investigator
should:
A. Photograph the evidence.
B. Document blood/body fluid on the body (froth/purge, substances from
orifices), location, and pattern before transporting.
C. Place decedent's hands and/or feet in unused paper bags (as determined
by the scene).
D. Collect trace evidence before transporting the body (e.g., blood, hair,
fibers, etc.).
E. Arrange for the collection and transport of evidence at the scene (when
necessary).
F. Ensure the proper collection of blood and body fluids for subsequent
analysis (if body will be released from scene to an outside agency without
an autopsy).
Summary:
It is essential that evidence be collected, preserved, transported, and
documented in an orderly and proper fashion to ensure the chain of
custody and admissibility in a legal action. The preservation and
documentation of the evidence on the body must be initiated by the
investigator at the scene to prevent alterations or contamination.
4. Establish Decedent Identification
Principle: The establishment or confirmation of the decedent's identity is
paramount to the death investigation. Proper identification allows
notification of next of kin, settlement of estates, resolution of criminal and
civil litigation, and the proper completion of the death certificate.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall engage in a diligent effort to
establish/confirm the decedent's identity.
Procedure: To establish identity, the investigator should document use of
the following methods:
A. Direct visual or photographic identification of the decedent if visually
recognizable.
B. Scientific methods such as fingerprints, dental, radiographic, and DNA
comparisons.
C. Circumstantial methods such as (but not restricted to) personal effects,
circumstances, physical characteristics, tattoos, and anthropologic data.
Summary:
There are several methods available that can be used to properly identify
deceased persons. This is essential for investigative, judicial, family, and
vital records issues.
5. Document Post Mortem Changes
Principle: The documenting of post mortem changes to the body assists
the investigator in explaining body appearance in the interval following
death. Inconsistencies between post mortem changes and body location
may indicate movement of body and validate or invalidate witness
statements. In addition, post mortem changes to the body, when correlated
with circumstantial information, can assist the investigators in estimating
the approximate time of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall document all post mortem changes relative
to the decedent and the environment.
Procedure: Upon arrival at the scene and prior to moving the body, the
investigator should note the presence of each of the following in his/her
report:
A. Livor (color, location, blanchability, Tardieu spots)
consistent/inconsistent with position of the body.
B. Rigor (stage/intensity, location on the body, broken, inconsistent with
the scene).
C. Degree of decomposition (putrefaction, adipocere, mummification,
skeletonization, as appropriate).
D. Insect and animal activity.
E. Scene temperature (document method used and time estimated).
F. Description of body temperature (e.g., warm, cold, frozen) or
measurement of body temperature (document method used and time of
measurement).
Summary:
Documentation of post mortem changes in every report is essential to
determine an accurate cause and manner of death, provide information as
to the time of death, corroborate witness statements, and indicate that the
body may have been moved after death.
6. Participate in Scene Debriefing
Principle: The scene debriefing helps investigators from all participating
agencies to establish post-scene responsibilities by sharing data regarding
particular scene findings. The scene debriefing provides each agency the
opportunity for input regarding special requests for assistance, additional
information, special examinations, and other requests requiring
interagency communication, cooperation, and education.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall participate in or initiate interagency scene
debriefing to verify specific post-scene responsibilities.
Procedure: When participating in scene debriefing, the investigator should:
A. Determine post-scene responsibilities (identification, notification, press
relations, and evidence transportation).
B. Determine/identify the need for a specialist (e.g., crime laboratory
technicians, social services, entomologists, OSHA).
C. Communicate with the pathologist about responding to the scene or to
the autopsy schedule (as needed).
D. Share investigative data (as required in furtherance of the
investigation).
E. Communicate special requests to appropriate agencies, being mindful of
the necessity for confidentiality.
Summary:
The scene debriefing is the best opportunity for investigative participants
to communicate special requests and confirm all current and additional
scene responsibilities. The debriefing allows participants the opportunity
to establish clear lines of responsibility for a successful investigation.
7. Determine Notification Procedures (Next of Kin)
Principle: Every reasonable effort should be made to notify the next of kin
as soon as possible. Notification of next of kin initiates closure for the
family, disposition of remains, and facilitates the collection of additional
information relative to the case.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall ensure that next of kin is notified of the
death and that all failed and successful attempts at notification are
documented.
Procedure: When determining notification procedures, the investigator
should:
A. Identify next of kin (determine who will perform task).
B. Locate next of kin (determine who will perform task).
C. Notify next of kin (assign person(s) to perform task) and record time of
notification, or, if delegated to another agency, gain confirmation when
notification is made.
D. Notify concerned agencies of status of the notification.
Summary:
The investigator is responsible for ensuring that the next of kin is
identified, located, and notified in a timely manner. The time and method
of notification should be documented. Failure to locate next of kin and
efforts to do so should be a matter of record. This ensures that every
reasonable effort has been made to contact the family.
8. Ensure Security of Remains
Principle: Ensuring security of the body requires the investigator to
supervise the labeling, packaging, and removal of the remains. An
appropriate identification tag is placed on the body to preclude
misidentification upon receipt at the examining agency. This function also
includes safeguarding all potential physical evidence and/or property and
clothing that remain on the body.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall supervise and ensure the proper
identification, inventory, and security of evidence/property and its
packaging and removal from the scene.
Procedure: Prior to leaving the scene, the investigator should:
A. Ensure that the body is protected from further trauma or contamination
(if not, document) and unauthorized removal of therapeutic and
resuscitative equipment.
B. Inventory and secure property, clothing, and personal effects that are on
the body (remove in a controlled environment with witness present).
C. Identify property and clothing to be retained as evidence (in a
controlled environment).
D. Recover blood and/or vitreous samples prior to release of remains.
E. Place identification on the body and body bag.
F. Ensure/supervise the placement of the body into the bag.
G. Ensure/supervise the removal of the body from the scene.
H. Secure transportation.
Summary:
Ensuring the security of the remains facilitates proper identification of the
remains, maintains a proper chain of custody, and safeguards property and
evidence.
Section E: Establishing and Recording Decedent Profile Information
1. Document the Discovery History
Principle: Establishing a decedent profile includes documenting a
discovery history and circumstances surrounding the discovery. The basic
profile will dictate subsequent levels of investigation, jurisdiction, and
authority. The focus (breadth/depth) of further investigation is dependent
on this information.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall document the discovery history, available
witnesses, and apparent circumstances leading to death.
Procedure: For an investigator to correctly document the discovery
history, he/she should:
A. Establish and record person(s) who discovered the body and when.
B. Document the circumstances surrounding the discovery (who, what,
where, when, how).
Summary:
The investigator must produce clear, concise, documented information
concerning who discovered the body, what are the circumstances of
discovery, where the discovery occurred, when the discovery was made,
and how the discovery was made.
2. Determine Terminal Episode History
Principle: Pre-terminal circumstances play a significant role in
determining cause and manner of death. Documentation of medical
intervention and/or procurement of ante mortem specimens help to
establish the decedent's condition prior to death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall document known circumstances and medical
intervention preceding death.
Procedure: In order for the investigator to determine terminal episode
history, he/she should:
A. Document when, where, how, and by whom decedent was last known
to be alive.
B. Document the incidents prior to the death.
C. Document complaints/symptoms prior to the death.
D. Document and review complete EMS records (including the initial
electrocardiogram).
E. Obtain relevant medical records (copies).
F. Obtain relevant ante mortem specimens.
Summary:
Obtaining records of pre-terminal circumstances and medical history
distinguishes medical treatment from trauma. This history and relevant
ante mortem specimens assist the medical examiner/coroner in
determining cause and manner of death.
3. Document Decedent Medical History
Principle: The majority of deaths referred to the medical examiner/coroner
are natural deaths. Establishing the decedent's medical history helps to
focus the investigation. Documenting the decedent's medical signs or
symptoms prior to death determines the need for subsequent examinations.
The relationship between disease and injury may play a role in the cause,
manner, and circumstances of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain the decedent's past medical history.
Procedure: Through interviews and review of the written records, the
investigator should:
A. Document medical history, including medications taken, alcohol and
drug use, and family medical history from family members and witnesses.
B. Document information from treating physicians and/or hospitals to
confirm history and treatment.
C. Document physical characteristics and traits (e.g.,
left-/right-handedness, missing appendages, tattoos, etc.).
Summary:
Obtaining a thorough medical history focuses the investigation, aids in
disposition of the case, and helps determine the need for a post mortem
examination or other laboratory tests or studies.
4. Document Decedent Mental Health History
Principle: The decedent's mental health history can provide insight into the
behavior/state of mind of the individual. That insight may produce clues
that will aid in establishing the cause, manner, and circumstances of the
death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain information from sources familiar
with the decedent pertaining to the decedent's mental health history.
Procedure: The investigator should:
A. Document the decedent's mental health history, including
hospitalizations and medications.
B. Document the history of suicidal ideations, gestures, and/or attempts.
C. Document mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists,
psychologists, counselors, etc.) who treated the decedent.
D. Document family mental health history.
Summary:
Knowledge of the mental health history allows the investigator to evaluate
properly the decedent's state of mind and contributes to the determination
of cause, manner, and circumstances of death.
5. Document Social History
Principle: Social history includes marital, family, sexual, educational,
employment, and financial information. Daily routines, habits and
activities, and friends and associates of the decedent help in developing the
decedent's profile. This information will aid in establishing the cause,
manner, and circumstances of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain social history information from
sources familiar with the decedent.
Procedure: When collecting relevant social history information, the
investigator should:
A. Document marital/domestic history.
B. Document family history (similar deaths, significant dates).
C. Document sexual history.
D. Document employment history.
E. Document financial history.
F. Document daily routines, habits, and activities.
G. Document relationships, friends, and associates.
H. Document religious, ethnic, or other pertinent information (e.g.,
religious objection to autopsy).
I. Document educational background.
J. Document criminal history.
Summary:
Information from sources familiar with the decedent pertaining to the
decedent's social history assists in determining cause, manner, and
circumstances of death.
Section F: Completing the Scene Investigation
1. Maintain Jurisdiction Over the Body
Principle: Maintaining jurisdiction over the body allows the investigator to
protect the chain of custody as the body is transported from the scene for
autopsy, specimen collection, or storage.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall maintain jurisdiction of the body by
arranging for the body to be transported for autopsy, specimen collection,
or storage by secure conveyance.
Procedure: When maintaining jurisdiction over the body, the investigator
should:
A. Arrange for, and document, secure transportation of the body to
a medical or autopsy facility for further examination or storage.
B. Coordinate and document procedures to be performed when the body is
received at the facility.
Summary:
By providing documented secure transportation of the body from the scene
to an authorized receiving facility, the investigator maintains jurisdiction
and protects chain of custody of the body.
2. Release Jurisdiction of the Body
Principle: Prior to releasing jurisdiction of the body to an authorized
receiving agent or funeral director, it is necessary to determine the person
responsible for certification of the death. Information to complete the
death certificate includes demographic information and the date, time, and
location of death.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall obtain sufficient data to enable completion
of the death certificate and release of jurisdiction over the body.
Procedure: When releasing jurisdiction over the body, the investigator
should:
A. Determine who will sign the death certificate (name, agency, etc.).
B. Confirm the date, time, and location of death.
C. Collect, when appropriate, blood, vitreous fluid, and other evidence
prior to release of the body from the scene.
D. Document and arrange with the authorized receiving agent to reconcile
all death certificate information.
E. Release the body to a funeral director or other authorized receiving
agent.
Summary:
The investigator releases jurisdiction only after determining who will sign
the death certificate; documenting the date, time, and location of death;
collecting appropriate specimens; and releasing the body to the funeral
director or other authorized receiving agent.
3. Perform Exit Procedures
Principle: Bringing closure to the scene investigation ensures that
important evidence has been collected and the scene has been processed.
In addition, a systematic review of the scene ensures that artifacts or
equipment are not inadvertently left behind (e.g., used disposable gloves,
paramedical debris, film wrappers, etc.), and any dangerous materials or
conditions have been reported.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: At the conclusion of the scene investigation, the investigator shall
conduct a post-investigative "walk through" and ensure the scene
investigation is complete.
Procedure: When performing exit procedures, the investigator should:
A. Identify, inventory, and remove all evidence collected at the scene.
B. Remove all personal equipment and materials from the scene.
C. Report and document any dangerous materials or conditions.
Summary:
Conducting a scene "walk through" upon exit ensures that all evidence has
been collected, that materials are not inadvertently left behind, and that
any dangerous materials or conditions have been reported to the proper
entities.
4. Assist the Family
Principle: The investigator provides the family with a timetable so they
can arrange for final disposition and provides information on available
community and professional resources that may assist the family.
Authorization: Medical Examiner/Coroner Official Office Policy Manual;
State or Federal Statutory Authority.
Policy: The investigator shall offer the decedent's family information
regarding available community and professional resources.
Procedure: When the investigator is assisting the family, it is important to:
A. Inform the family if an autopsy is required.
B. Inform the family of available support services (e.g., victim assistance,
police, social services, etc.).
C. Inform the family of appropriate agencies to contact with questions
(medical examiner/coroner offices, law enforcement, SIDS support group,
etc.).
D. Ensure family is not left alone with body (if circumstances warrant).
E. Inform the family of approximate body release timetable.
F. Inform the family of information release timetable (toxicology, autopsy
results, etc., as required).
G. Inform the family of available reports, including cost, if any.
Summary:
The interaction with the family allows the investigator to assist and direct
them to appropriate resources. It is essential that families be given a
timetable of events so that they can make necessary arrangements. In
addition, the investigator needs to make them aware of what and when
information will be available.
-------------------------------
About the National Institute of Justice
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), a component of the Office of
Justice Programs, is the research agency of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Created by the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, as
amended, NIJ is authorized to support research, evaluation, and
demonstration programs, development of technology, and both national
and international information dissemination. Specific mandates of the Act
direct NIJ to:
o Sponsor special projects, and research and development programs, that
will improve and strengthen the criminal justice system and reduce or
prevent crime.
o Conduct national demonstration projects that employ innovative or
promising approaches for improving criminal justice.
o Develop new technologies to fight crime and improve criminal justice.
o Evaluate the effectiveness of criminal justice programs and identify
programs that promise to be successful if continued or repeated.
o Recommend actions that can be taken by Federal, State, and local
governments as well as by private organizations to improve criminal
justice.
o Carry out research on criminal behavior.
o Develop new methods of crime prevention and reduction of crime and
delinquency.
In recent years, NIJ has greatly expanded its initiatives, the result of the
Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (the Crime
Act), partnerships with other Federal agencies and private foundations,
advances in technology, and a new international focus. Some examples of
these new initiatives:
o New research and evaluation is exploring key issues in community
policing, violence against women, sentencing reforms, and specialized
courts such as drug courts.
o Dual-use technologies are being developed to support national defense
and local law enforcement needs.
o Four regional National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology
Centers and a Border Research and Technology Center have joined the
National Center in Rockville, Maryland.
o The causes, treatment, and prevention of violence against women and
violence within the family are being investigated in cooperation with
several agencies of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
o NIJ's links with the international community are being strengthened
through membership in the United Nations network of criminological
institutes; participation in developing the U.N. Criminal Justice
Information Network; initiation of UNOJUST (U.N. Online Justice
Clearinghouse), which electronically links the institutes to the U.N.
network; and establishment of an NIJ International Center.
o The NIJ-administered criminal justice information clearinghouse, the
world's largest, has improved its online capability.
o The Institute's Drug Use Forecasting (DUF) program has been expanded
and enhanced. Renamed ADAM (Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring), the
program will increase the number of drug-testing sites, and its role as a
"platform" for studying drug-related crime will grow.
o NIJ's new Crime Mapping Research Center will provide training in
computer mapping technology, collect and archive geocoded crime data,
and develop analytic software.
o The Institute's program of intramural research has been expanded and
enhanced.
The Institute Director, who is appointed by the President and confirmed by
the Senate, establishes the Institute's objectives, guided by the priorities of
the Office of Justice Programs, the Department of Justice, and the needs of
the criminal justice field. The Institute actively solicits the views of
criminal justice professionals and researchers in the continuing search for
answers that inform public policymaking in crime and justice.
For information on the National Institute of Justice, please contact:
National Criminal Justice Reference Service
Box 6000
Rockville, MD 20849-6000
800-851-3420
e-mail: askncjrs@ncjrs.org
You can view or obtain an electronic version of this document from the
NCJRS Justice Information Center World Wide Web site.
To access this site, go to http://www.ncjrs.org
If you have questions, call or e-mail NCJRS.
-------------------------------
NCJ 167568